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Bad Credit Score? Don’t Panic – Read This!

A bad credit score might not seem like that big of a deal, but it can have pretty overwhelming implications for both your current finances and your ability to get a handle on financial problems in the future. If you have a good credit score, it is equally important that you keep that score looking healthy for as long as possible. If however things are already looking a bit grim, there’s no need to panic. You simply need to understand your current situation a little more, and start to explore ways of improving things.

How does a bad credit score happen?

Bad credit occurs when you have you don’t have a strong history with credit agreements. If you’ve ever gone into your bank overdraft and stayed there for too long, your credit score will be affected. Going over your overdraft limit, as well will usually result in a fine and will also knock your credit score. A bad credit score usually indicates more than just one or two offences.

A credit score in the 600-and-below region is known as “sub-prime”. This means you’re considered a less-than-excellent candidate for things like loans and other contracts. Subprime loans are possible, but since they were a major contributor to the 2007-8 recession, they’re not so common these days!

A quick note about differing credit scores

You don’t have a universal credit score. Different lenders will have different credit scoring models; some lenders will care more about certain “offences” while others won’t think that much about them. Getting a bad credit score from one lender doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll get the same score from another. It’s usually a good indication that you have problems that need to be fixed as soon as possible.

How will a bad credit score affect me?

Getting a credit card probably won’t be a problem, although you may have to deal with an interest rate that’s higher than usual. Being able to get your hands on certain gadgets on contract can be a problem however, but it’s not impossible to get an iPhone 7 with bad credit. Home or car insurance may cost you a lot more; this is because people with poor credit are statistically more likely to make insurance claims.

A prospective employer may be allowed to look at your credit report and may determine your job suitability on the basis of that information. A landlord is also allowed check your score before deciding to rent a property to you. Employers and landlords don’t generally need your consent to find this information!

How to start fixing the problem

Lessen future credit agreements as much as you can. Start paying cash for your purchases instead of using your credit card. Each card transaction is a small credit agreement. Paying off due balances is perhaps the most important thing! Being behind on debts is most likely the reason your credit report isn’t looking great. This may mean living more frugally for a while, which probably doesn’t sound that fun. But the financial control and freedom you’ll gain in the long run will make it worth it.

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Donna

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Ana De- Jesus

That is why I am too scared to use my credit card and use my debit card instead because I know I am not great with money , I definitely don’t want a bad credit score. I like the idea of paying in cash though x

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Jacqui Paterson

I have my credit report emailed to me once a month, so I can keep an eye on it and fix any problems that might crop up. You never know when you’ll need a spotless credit rating, so it’s very important to keep it looking healthy! x

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Kayleigh Watkins

Some fab tips, I use clear score and my credit score is lower on therethan when I check on experian, my housing association has introduced a new scheme with the big issue where every week when I pay my rent my credit score will go up, which will be a great help xxx

Susie Wilkinson

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eliza

This is a good insight – for those that have bad credit score, steps that they need to take. And for those that doesn’t things to avoid and do to keep their score good. Manage our finances is really a big part.

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EG III

I learned the hard way at an early age (my late teens), just how much of a difference having a low credit score makes. Since then it’s been a long hard climb back to respectability but I’ve finally made it. Hopefully your advice helps someone before it’s too late for them!

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hal

i definitely have bad credit score..so it will take ages to get it going…so these tips will help…its funny i always have money but im lax when it comes to paying on time cos i know i can pay whenever i feel like it….so badddd